The concept of Independence Day was approved by the 2nd Continental Congress of the United States on July 4th, 1776. The first celebration of Independence Day began a year later, evolving as time has passed. Believe it or not, fireworks was part of the first 4th of July celebration, 1777 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Since the earliest forms of pyrotechnics can be traced back to the first century in China, fireworks had become a common form of celebration.
For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery, Galatians 5:1.
As the 13 original colonies declared their independence from a foreign dictator, England, this decision fueled the Revolutionary War which began April 19th, 1775 and ended in victory on September 3rd, 1783. The thought of being free and independent inspired young men to fight for 8 plus years. Despite the deaths of 17,000 fellow soldiers and another 25,000 who were maimed or wounded, these 13 colonies were united under one flag. This common goal ignited a spirit of perseverance to will Americans on to victory.
For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another, Galatians 5:13.
The recent demise of the Nike shoe inspired by a replica of a Betsy Ross flag suggests that independent minds are disappearing. As soon as Colin Kaepernick, a Nike spokesperson complained, this influenced Nike to stop production of the Betsy Ross Flag Shoe. This recent fiasco is an example of a growing problem. If an atheist doesn’t like a new law or ruling, the ACLU goes judge shopping to stop this legislation. Meanwhile, if a store owner follows their religious convictions to not participate in a specific celebration, fines, law suits and even jail time may follow. Thus, I am troubled as this Independence Day highlights the disappearance of freedom and independence. May God raise up future leaders to alter this trend so that independence is a reality and not just a word.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 